New California Fines For Wasting Water Take Effect

Regulations intended to increase water conservation in California have taken effect.

The California Water Resources Control Board says local agencies can fine water users up to $500 a day for failing to follow measures intended to reduce outdoor water waste. The new rules took effect Tuesday.

Among the regulations: Californians are expected to stop washing down driveways and sidewalks and to only use a hose with a shut-off nozzle to wash cars. Large urban water suppliers are also required to report water use on a monthly basis starting next month.

The stronger enforcement was triggered in part by a state report that found water consumption has actually risen amid the worst drought in nearly four decades, despite Gov. Jerry Brown's push to cut water use by 20 percent.

The rules apply to residents and business owners for nine months, but they could be renewed.

-Capital Public Radio Staff, The Associated Press contributed to this report.